A state-of the art sensor to explore the quantum world

Nuclear and Particle Physics Experiments

Home EducationalNuclear and Particle Physics Experiments A state-of the art sensor to explore the quantum world

Silicon Photomultiplier (SiPM)

SG6011 – SiMP CharacterizationCharacterization of a SiMP detector using an ultra-fast pulsed LED. Estimation of the main features of the detector at fixed bias voltage.
SG6012 – Dependence of the SiMP Properties on the Bias VoltageStudy the dependence of the main SiMP figures of merit on the bias voltage. Measurement of the breakdown voltage and identification of the optimal working point. The experiment requires the use of the LED source included in the kit.
SG6013 – Temperature Effects on SiMP PropertiesGain, noise and photon detection efficiency (at fixed bias voltage) are affected by temperature. The student is driven through the measurement of the dependence of these critical figures.

Equipment

SP5600E – Educational Photon Kit

SP5600

DT5720A

SP601

SP5650C

Power Supply & Amplification Unit

Desktop Digitizer 250 MS/s

LED Driver

Sensor Holder for SP5600 with SiMP

SP5600AN – Educational Kit – Premium Version

SP5600

DT5720A

A315

SP5606

SP5607

SP5601

SP5650C

SP5608

Power Supply & Amplification Unit

Desktop Digitizer 250 MS/s

Splitter

Mini Spectrometer

Absorption Tool

LED Driver

Sensor Holder for SP5600 with SiMP

Scintillating tile

Exploring the quantum nature of phenomena is one of the most exiting experiences a physics student can live.

What is being proposed here has to do with light quanta, radioactive decays (beta and gamma rays) and cosmic rays. The experiments address the essence of the phenomenon as well as exemplary illustrations of their use in medical imaging and industry, complemented by basic and advanced statistical exercises.

The set-up are all based on Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPM) state of-the-art sensor of light with single photon sensitivity and unprecedented photon number capability. In the field of light sensing and related appliances and instrumentation, SiPM are expected to have the same impact the transistor had: well beyond the replacement of thermoionic valves, it triggered a revolution opening up new and unforeseen perspectives. As a consequence, it is quite natural to get started with activities aimed to introduce the student to the knowledge of the features of this class of sensors.